'Arrogant' paedophile used religion to mask abuse

A paedophile who used religion to mask his sexual abuse of multiple children over a number of years has been jailed for 21 years.

James Wilson, 74, was found guilty of 13 offences by jurors at Newcastle Crown Court, including indecent assaults and inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

His victims said he had destroyed their childhoods and should spend the rest of his life in prison.

Judge Tim Gittins said born-again Christian Wilson, from Gateshead, was an "arrogant, sanctimonious hypocrite of the worst kind" who sought to "hide abhorrent behaviour behind scripture and prayer".

Prosecutor Lee Fish said Wilson, of Wealcroft in Leam Lane, groomed his victims and carried out a "catalogue of sexual offending" dating back almost half a century.

In a statement read to the court, his first victim said they were "petrified" of Wilson and his "psychological manipulation", adding he caused them to feel "full of fear, guilt, shame and anxiety".

They said Wilson had had "years of freedom" and did not deserve any more.

Another said the abuse caused "deep anxiety and stress", adding: "I hope he will be made to pay for his crimes and spend the rest of his life in jail."

Mr Fish said Wilson had multiple historic convictions for wounding, adding: "As a younger man he was capable of serious violence."

Judge Gittins said Wilson was a "drunken, violent bully" who instilled terror in his victims for years while "fervently" displaying an image of being a born-again Christian.

The judge said Wilson had not shown any genuine remorse and remained a danger to young children.

Wilson was also made subject of a sexual harm prevention order and placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Should he ever be released, he would have to serve an extra year on extended licence.

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